Just In: ‘I wanted to reward him’ – Farke explains overlooking Leeds United… Read More
‘I wanted to reward him’ – Farke explains overlooking Leeds United… Read More
Daniel Farke, the Leeds United manager, revealed his decision to select Joel Piroe over other alternatives for the team’s recent match against West Bromwich Albion, emphasizing his desire to reward Piroe for his dedication and patience over the past year. Piroe, who has played a vital role in the squad, was chosen to fill the gap left by Georginio Rutter, who was in the process of completing a £40 million transfer to Brighton & Hove Albion.
In Saturday’s match at The Hawthorns, Farke reversed seven of the eight changes made following Wednesday’s loss to Middlesbrough, with Piroe being the only player to retain his starting position. Despite a somewhat lackluster performance in the final third, which led to his withdrawal after 65 minutes, Farke stood by his decision to start Piroe, highlighting the forward’s importance to the team.
Farke acknowledged that he had other options within his squad to replace Rutter, such as Joe Rothwell and Brenden Aaronson. Rothwell, known for his mobility and ability to drop back and maintain possession in deeper areas, and Aaronson, who excels in one-on-one situations, were both considered. However, Farke ultimately opted for Piroe, citing the Dutch forward’s previous performances in a similar role as a key factor in his decision.
“We were considering different options,” Farke explained. “Joe Rothwell could have provided more depth and possession in deeper areas due to his flexibility and mobility. Brenden, on the other hand, offers a more aggressive, one-on-one approach and a unique movement out of this position. But Joel has delivered in several excellent games in this role last season, and we felt he deserved another chance.”
Although Piroe is not a typical advanced playmaker, Farke believes that the forward has valuable qualities that make him an asset in that position. Farke described Piroe as more of a “loose striker” or a deeper-lying forward rather than a traditional number 10. He admitted that while Piroe may not exhibit the creativity and mobility typically associated with a number 10, his finishing ability and knack for scoring goals make him a crucial player for Leeds United.
“He’s not your classic number 10,” Farke said. “But he plays more as a deeper-lying striker. He might not shine as a mobile number 10, full of creativity, delivering pass after pass, but what he brings is a clinical edge in front of goal. That’s something we’ve been missing in recent weeks.”
Piroe’s goal-scoring record, particularly during his time with Swansea City, where he notched up 13 league goals last season, is well known. Despite this impressive tally, Piroe has often found himself behind players like Rutter and Patrick Bamford in the pecking order over the past year.
Farke emphasized that his decision to start Piroe was also a recognition of the forward’s hard work and perseverance, despite facing competition for playing time. He wanted to acknowledge Piroe’s consistent efforts and his ability to contribute to the team, even when not in the starting lineup.
“I wanted to reward Joel for his patience and hard work,” Farke continued. “He’s always given his all, even when a player like Georginio Rutter was playing ahead of him. And this is despite him being one of the top goal-scorers in the last three years. Today, I wanted to show him my confidence, trust, and support. It wasn’t an easy game for him, but he played his part in being solid.”
Farke concluded by expressing his satisfaction with Piroe’s performance, while also acknowledging that there is room for improvement, particularly in terms of being more threatening in front of goal.
“Yes, he can certainly deliver more in front of the opponent’s goal,” Farke admitted. “We all know this. But overall, I’m pleased that we have a player like Joel in our squad.”
Through his decision to start Piroe, Farke sought to not only recognize the forward’s contributions but also to boost his confidence, reinforcing the importance of patience and hard work in a competitive squad like Leeds United.
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